Apple launches iOS-controlled CarPlay in Ferraris, Mercedes, Volvos

Apple Inc. debuted on Monday its “iOS in the car” system known as CarPlay, letting iPhone users access content and maps from their vehicle’s dashboard.

For now CarPlay will be only in Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo systems, and consumers will get to use the system later this year, Apple announced at the Geneva International Motor Show. The system requires iOS 7 and an iPhone 5 or later model. BMW, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Land Rover, Toyota, Nissan and others have pledged to include the iOS-dash system in upcoming cars.

CarPlay relies on Siri to enable drivers to place calls, listen to voice mail, incoming alerts and messages, according to Re/code. The car’s infotainment system also displays maps with turn-by-turn directions, iTunes radio and specific third-party apps such as Spotify.

Other companies have made integrating their technology with in-car entertainment a high priority as well, including Google Inc., which announced in January that it is pursuing an in-car version of the Android operating system with General Motors, Audi and others.